Deep in the heart of the enchanting state of Massachusetts, where graceful swans swirl on the ponds and the brilliant fall foliage paints the landscape with hues of gold and crimson, an extraordinary group of kids gather. These are not your ordinary, run-of-the-mill, video-game-playing youngsters. Oh, no! These are the awesomely adventurous Aikido Kids of Massachusetts! Leading this band of mini martial artists is the super-cool, fantastically funky, imaginary character known only as Sensei Squiggles. With his endless noodle-like arms and a fluffy marshmallow head, Sensei Squiggles is a sight to behold! Though he might look funny, with his huge googly eyes and a red clown nose that honks every time he sneezes, don't be fooled! Sensei Squiggles is a master of Aikido, the peaceful martial art. Sensei Squiggles, with his contagious giggle, teaches the Aikido Kids how to twirl, tumble, and toss in a blur of swift, sleek movements. They learn to hold their bodies proud and strong, like mighty oak trees, and to move with the fluid grace of the Charles River. The Aikido dojo, filled with laughter and the squeak of bare feet on the mats, becomes a second home for these courageous kids. In Massachusetts, the land of clam chowder and mighty Red Sox, these Aikido Kids are the cool cats of the playground, carrying their newfound confidence and peace-loving skills into their daily lives. Thanks to Sensei Squiggles, they learn that strength isn't about being the biggest or the loudest, but about being the kindest and most balanced. So, if you ever find yourself in the magical state of Massachusetts, be ready to meet these Aikido superstars who are as colorful and vibrant as a Boston tea party, spreading peace one twirl, tumble, and toss at a time!
Read morebest aikido programs in Granby, MA
DEBUT Creative Center & Theater-Studio is a dual-language (English–Russian) program where kids explore creativity, confidence, and self-expression. From theater and dance to fencing and stage performance, children can try new activities and discover their unique talents. Small class sizes let instructors give each child personalized attention, helping them feel comfortable, supported, and confident as they learn. Kids build artistic skills while also developing social confidence, teamwork, and poise on stage and in everyday life. Our programs celebrate each child’s individuality, combining fun, hands-on experiences with a focus on personal growth—all while keeping Russian language and culture an important part of the curriculum.
Training takes place in a non-commercial, home-based, private dojo with admission based on an interview with Chief Instructor, Philip Traunstein, and observation of conduct during a trial class. Donations are accepted to help with expenses and to maintain individual’s membership in Birankai North America. At Long Mountain Aikido, practitioners can expect to learn a traditional Japanese martial arts style. The dojo provides a safe and welcoming environment to learn and practice this unique and ancient martial art. Through careful observation of behavior during a trial class and an interview with the Chief Instructor, Phil Traunstein, admission to the dojo is granted. Donations are accepted to help with dojo expenses and to maintain individual’s membership in Birankai North America.